The podcast delves into Stoic moderation, discipline, and self-control. It explores the meaning of moderation, featuring discussions on role models like David Goggins, self-discipline, propriety, modesty, and self-improvement. The episodes provide insights on finding balance, virtue, excellence, and the importance of self-control for personal growth.
Good discipline involves knowing the right actions in order and executing them competently.
Modesty means maintaining self-respect, avoiding dishonor, and recognizing personal boundaries.
Deep dives
Orderliness
Orderliness or good discipline is about knowing what actions must be taken in what sequence, displaying competence in carrying out those actions. An example is sticking to a plan diligently, even under temptation or distraction.
Propriety
Propriety, or seamliness, involves understanding suitable and unsuitable impulses and actions, considering what is appropriate for the role one plays in a given situation. This aspect focuses on aligning actions with societal norms and personal responsibilities.
Modesty
Modesty is characterized by self-respect, avoiding acts that could invite criticism or dishonor by maintaining humility without false modesty. It pertains to recognizing personal boundaries and acting honorably in alignment with virtuous behavior.
Self-Control
Self-control is the ability to adhere to reasoned actions without succumbing to pleasures, staying committed to what is deemed right despite temptations. It embodies an unwavering adherence to rational decisions, preventing weakness of will in pursuing chosen goals.
“Moderation is subdivided into good discipline, seemliness, modesty, and self-control.”
The ancient Stoic breakdown of moderation is essential for becoming more disciplined. It will help you think about the ideas of moderation, discipline, and self-control more deeply and generate strategies for how to becoming more moderate in your life today.